Eastbourne has always felt like a hidden gem on the southeast coast of England. With its long pebble beaches, scenic cliffs, charming Victorian architecture, and a quieter pace than Brighton or Hastings, it has the perfect blend of seaside relaxation and English culture. Yet, like any destination, visiting Eastbourne for the first time can be tricky if you aren’t prepared. Over multiple trips, I’ve learned that the difference between a stressful visit and a seamless, delightful experience often lies in avoiding common mistakes. Here, I want to share my personal insights—ten mistakes first-time visitors frequently make, along with practical advice and booking tips to help you enjoy Eastbourne fully.
1. Underestimating the Weather
I vividly remember my very first trip to Eastbourne in early May. I assumed that spring meant mild, sunny days, so I packed only a light cardigan and a summer dress. By the afternoon, the brisk wind off the English Channel had me shivering, and by evening, a sudden drizzle caught me completely unprepared. I ended up huddled under a café awning, sipping hot chocolate and watching tourists dash past with umbrellas.
Eastbourne’s weather is famously variable. Even in summer, it can be sunny in the morning and windy or rainy by mid-afternoon. Coastal mist often rolls in unexpectedly, altering visibility along the cliffs.
Practical Tip: Always carry a waterproof jacket, a scarf, and a light sweater. Layering is essential, especially if you plan to walk along the cliffs at Beachy Head or explore the South Downs National Park. For compact, travel-friendly waterproof jackets and weather gear, I often shop on Amazon UK or Decathlon UK. These stores offer durable yet lightweight clothing that can be easily packed and carried throughout the day.
Personal Note: One of my favorite mornings in Eastbourne began under a misty sky. I wore my waterproof jacket, wandered down the winding paths of the Italian Gardens, and sipped tea while listening to seagulls. The unpredictable weather created a sense of serenity that I could never have enjoyed on a clear, bustling summer day.
2. Ignoring Off-Peak Travel Opportunities
When I first planned a weekend trip to Eastbourne, I assumed weekends were ideal for maximizing my sightseeing. While weekends are lively, I quickly learned that the seafront and pier can become overcrowded, especially during school holidays or the summer months. Trying to take photos without other tourists in the frame felt nearly impossible.
Practical Tip: Visiting midweek—or even during the shoulder seasons of late spring and early autumn—can provide a much more relaxed experience. On one of my trips in September, arriving on a Tuesday morning allowed me to enjoy the Towner Art Gallery without waiting in line, and the Beachy Head cliffs were eerily peaceful, with only a few walkers and cyclists sharing the view.
Booking Platform Tip: Platforms like Trainline are excellent for securing off-peak train tickets at discounted rates. Combine this with midweek hotel deals on Booking.com or Expedia to enjoy both financial and experiential advantages.
3. Skipping the Local Seafront Restaurants
During my first Eastbourne trip, I assumed the seafront would be filled with overpriced tourist traps. I ended up dining at a chain restaurant and immediately regretted it. On subsequent visits, I discovered culinary gems that showcase the town’s flavors.
Must-Try Restaurants:
- The Beachy Head Pub, Langney Road, Eastbourne BN22 9PZ: A cozy, rustic pub famous for locally caught fish and chips. I remember ordering the beer-battered cod with mushy peas while watching the sun set over the sea—pure bliss.
- The View Restaurant, Royal Parade, Eastbourne BN21 3XB: Modern British cuisine with floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic sea views. Their seared scallops and West Sussex lamb are exceptional.
Tip: Book tables in advance, especially during summer, using OpenTable. Early reservations can sometimes secure window tables or outdoor terrace seating. Many restaurants also offer weekday specials or early-bird discounts, which I’ve used multiple times to enjoy three-course meals for less than £25 per person.
4. Overplanning Without Breaks
On one ambitious first day, I attempted to visit the Pier, Towner Art Gallery, Eastbourne Bandstand, and the Beachy Head cliffs, all before lunchtime. By the time I reached the cliffs, I was exhausted, sweating from the climb, and unable to fully appreciate the sweeping views.
Lesson Learned: Eastbourne is best enjoyed at a gentle pace. Allocate one or two major attractions per half-day and leave space for spontaneous exploration—like wandering into local bookstores, antique shops, or seaside cafés.
Travel Tip: Use Google Maps or apps like TripAdvisor to estimate realistic walking times. Factor in breaks for coffee, snack stops, and photo opportunities. On my favorite itinerary, I scheduled a leisurely morning at Hastings Gardens, followed by a lunch at a seafront café, and an afternoon exploring Towner Art Gallery—it felt balanced and unhurried.
5. Forgetting About Public Transport
Eastbourne is charming to stroll through, but some key destinations, such as Beachy Head or Birling Gap, are several miles from the town center. On my first trip, I attempted the hike on foot, expecting it to be a pleasant walk. Halfway up the cliffs, the steep incline and the wind made me reconsider.
Practical Tip: Use buses for longer trips. The Compass Bus service connects Eastbourne town center to surrounding areas, including Beachy Head. For more flexibility, taxis or rideshare services like Uber UK are convenient.
Booking Platforms: For train journeys to Eastbourne, use Trainline. For buses, National Express provides intercity connections. Local taxis can be booked in advance using apps or by calling providers like Eastbourne Taxis.
6. Underestimating Parking Challenges
Driving to Eastbourne can be tricky, especially during peak season. On my first self-drive trip, I spent nearly an hour circling the seafront looking for a reasonably priced parking spot. I finally found space at Sovereign Harbour Car Park, but I had already lost half a day.
Tip: Pre-book parking when possible using JustPark. Popular parking areas include Eastbourne Town Centre Car Park and Marine Parade Car Park. Even if you don’t book in advance, arrive early for the best options.
Alternative: Traveling by train often removes parking worries entirely. I once took the train from London Victoria to Eastbourne, grabbed a coffee at a nearby café, and walked to the seafront without worrying about traffic or costs.
7. Failing to Research Seasonal Events
Eastbourne’s event calendar is lively, but first-time visitors often miss out due to lack of planning. Events such as the Eastbourne Airshow, Seaside Festival, and Christmas illuminations draw crowds but offer unforgettable experiences.
Tip: Check the official event calendar on Visit Eastbourne before booking your trip. Early planning allows you to align travel dates with unique events.
Booking Tip: Combine rail or bus travel with event tickets for efficiency. Platforms like Attraction Tickets Direct often offer bundled deals, which I have used to save money and skip queues.
8. Overlooking Hidden Gems
Many visitors stick to the seafront, missing Eastbourne’s charming side streets and smaller attractions. One of my favorite discoveries was Langney Shopping Village, a peaceful area with local craft shops, cafés, and antique stores.
Tip: Allow time to wander without a strict itinerary. Use TripAdvisor to identify small museums or art galleries that might not appear in mainstream guides. I’ve often found that the best souvenirs and personal experiences come from these hidden gems.
9. Misjudging Accommodation Location
On my first trip, I booked an inexpensive hotel on the outskirts, thinking I could take taxis into town. The extra cost and hassle quickly outweighed the savings.
Tip: Prioritize central locations near the seafront or King Edward’s Parade. While slightly more expensive, this saves both money and time. Platforms like Booking.com and Expedia allow filtering by distance from landmarks and user ratings.
Insider Tip: Some accommodations include free parking or complimentary breakfast, which can add value beyond the nightly rate.
10. Not Taking Advantage of Railcards and Travel Discounts
Finally, I learned that booking full-price train tickets to Eastbourne is a rookie mistake. Railcards, such as 16-25 Railcard, Two Together, and Family & Friends, can save 30% on fares. Using these discounts combined with early booking is essential for budget-conscious travelers.
Practical Tip: Many attractions and restaurants honor Railcards for discounts. Check for promotions on OpenTable, Booking.com, and Viator. I’ve enjoyed spa treatments, dinner specials, and guided tours at discounted rates simply by presenting my Railcard.
Seasonal Highlights and Personal Stories
Beyond avoiding mistakes, part of what makes Eastbourne special is its seasonal charm. In summer, the promenade bursts with colors, street performers, and fresh seafood markets. In autumn, the cliffs are dramatic, with golden sunlight and fewer tourists. Winter brings cozy pubs and festive lights, perfect for a romantic getaway. Each season requires slightly different planning: summer requires early bookings and sun protection, autumn is ideal for hikes and photography, and winter calls for warm layers and indoor cultural activities.
Platforms for Booking Accommodation, Travel, and Activities
To maximize convenience and savings, I rely on several UK platforms:
- Booking.com – Hotels, B\&Bs, and guesthouses with flexible cancellation.
- Expedia – Often bundles flights, hotels, and car rentals.
- Trainline – Train tickets with off-peak discounts and Railcard integration.
- Viator – Tickets for tours, museums, and local experiences.
- OpenTable – Restaurant reservations with access to specials.
- Attraction Tickets Direct – Event and attraction bundles for seasonal experiences.
Eastbourne is a town that rewards thoughtful planning. Avoiding these ten mistakes allows first-timers to truly enjoy its seaside charm, scenic beauty, and cultural richness. With careful weather preparation, mindful scheduling, smart transport choices, and a flexible mindset, every visit can become a treasured memory.
By exploring beyond the seafront, embracing local cuisine, and using smart booking platforms, I’ve repeatedly discovered new layers of Eastbourne—each visit more rewarding than the last. The town may be small, but its potential for unforgettable experiences is enormous.
